Carrot Soup

Bangladeshi Carrot Soup Recipe with Soy Sauce and Spices

Region / culture: Bangladesh | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Carrot soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of year. This hearty soup is packed with flavor and is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

History

Carrot soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and salads.

Ingredients

8 cups water
6 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 celery, chopped, with leaves
1 large onion, chopped
0.25 cup soy sauce
0.25 tsp ground cumin
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
0.25 tsp chili powder
0.25 tsp garlic powder
3 tsp curry powder
2.5 cups whole milk
6 tbsp dry potato flakes

How to prepare

In a large cooking pot, bring water to a boil.
Add carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion; return to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
Remove soup from heat, and let cool for about 5 minutes.
Puree the soup in a blender or food processor in batches until smooth.
Return the pureed soup back to the pot.
Add soy sauce, cumin, cayenne pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and curry powder; stir well.
Add whole milk, stirring constantly.
Stir in potato flakes.
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust seasonings to taste.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add a can of coconut milk for a creamy and rich flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop your vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Pureeing the soup in batches will help to achieve a smooth consistency.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more or less of the spices as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Carrot soup can be served as a starter or main course. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Pureeing the soup will help to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth in place of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for whole milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Carrot soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of carrot soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of yogurt, and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Carrot soup pairs well with a crisp green salad, a crusty baguette, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover carrot soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin out the soup.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of carrot soup contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Carrot soup is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Carrot soup is a low-fat dish, with each serving containing only 3 grams of fat. This makes it a healthy option for those watching their fat intake.

Proteins

While carrot soup is not a significant source of protein, each serving contains about 5 grams. To increase the protein content, consider adding a protein-rich ingredient such as tofu or chicken.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrot soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Carrot soup is a gluten-free and nut-free dish, making it suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. However, be sure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients for potential allergens.

Summary

Overall, carrot soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in fat and calories. It is a great source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

Carrot soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of year. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Carrot Soup. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Isabelle, who was known for her amazing culinary skills. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of carrots, onions, and spices filled the air, making my mouth water.

Isabelle greeted me with a warm smile and a hug before handing me a steaming bowl of her homemade Carrot Soup. With the first spoonful, I was hooked. The soup was rich, flavorful, and comforting, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Isabelle saw the look of delight on my face and chuckled. "I can see you're enjoying the soup," she said. "Would you like the recipe?"

I nodded eagerly, and she pulled out a weathered old recipe card from her collection. As she read off the ingredients and instructions, I scribbled furiously in my notebook, determined to recreate the magic of Isabelle's Carrot Soup in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. But the basic elements remain the same: fresh carrots, onions, garlic, and ginger sautéed in butter until soft and fragrant, then simmered in broth until tender. The final touch is a splash of cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, elevating the humble carrot into a bowl of pure comfort and joy.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the cold winter months when a steaming bowl of Carrot Soup is like a hug in a bowl.

But the story of this recipe goes beyond just Isabelle's kitchen. Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, each one bearing a special memory or connection. Some recipes were passed down from my own mother or grandmother, while others were discovered in cookbooks or shared by friends.

One of my favorite recipes, for example, was given to me by a kind elderly neighbor who had lived in France for many years. Her Coq au Vin recipe, with its rich wine sauce and tender chicken, always reminds me of her warmth and hospitality.

Another recipe, for a decadent chocolate cake, was shared with me by a fellow baker at a baking class I attended. We bonded over our love of desserts, and she generously passed on her secret recipe, which has since become a hit at every party and gathering.

Each recipe in my collection tells a story, a memory of a moment shared with someone special. And each time I cook one of these dishes, I am transported back to that moment, reliving the joy and connection that came with it.

So as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Carrot Soup, I am not just savoring the flavors and textures of the dish. I am also savoring the memories and connections that come with it, the stories of the people and places that have shaped my culinary journey.

And as I take a final sip of the warm, comforting soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking and sharing recipes, for the way it brings us together and fills our hearts with love and joy. And for that, I will always be thankful.